Both Republic and Empire:It is a time of tenuous peace. The Empire of San d'Oria, dominantly elven, held the ranks of humans as slaves to do their bidding and tedious tasks. In a desperate bid to gain their own freedom the humans and their sympathizers striked up a rebellion and managed to break free of their masters, forming the Republic of Bastok. After years of war the two nations had agreed to a cease fire. A few years into the cease fire, San d'Oria once again set out to annex the lands Bastok took from them, starting with the capital of Bastok itself. In an attempt to stop the blood shed, Bastok once again called for a meeting, this time to forge a peace treaty between the two nations. The Emperor decided to at least humor the members of the Republic and agreed to arrange a meeting. The neutral trade city of Aht Urghan has agreed to host the peace treaty, keeping the Republic and the Empire segregated into two different wings of the city to avoid sparking conflict. It is here in Aht Urghan where we begin our tale.

Empire Story:At the dock, workers of numerous kinds, fishermen, merchants, sailors and their captains are going about doing their business. Preparing their ship to move out on another trip and unloading their goods to sell in the market. Princess Arya stands on the edge of the dock looking toward the ocean, visibly depressed. Roy joins her after a short time to try to see what the problem is.

Roy: Ah yes, Madam Cornelia. It will be fine, your mother is a very strong woman.

At the other end of the pier, Fedaykin, Dartison, and Pure_Awesome watch the pair anxiously, hoping for the best.

Brontavis: What's going on? How is Roy doing?

Dartison: Doesn't look to good. Arya still looks down, and now Roy does as well.

Pure_Awesome: The two are like siblings, no one understands the princess better than Roy.

Dartison: Well, by the way those two look, it appears that I won't be able to explore and enjoy what Aht Urghan offers now.

Brontavis: You should feel lucky that you are in this city in the first place, and not in the town of Selbina.

Pure_Awesome: Yes, the only reason that we are here is because Princess Arya's father, his majesty the Emperor, let us join in on this mission. As such, we must behave ourselves in the town, as to not disrespect the other princes' armies.

Brontavis: Speaking of the princes, I don't like them. Just because Princess Arya's mother is not of the aristocracy, her brothers treat her coldly. It's not fair.

Dartison: Not just Arya's brothers, but the other generals treat her and her mother the same way.

Brontavis: Arya still makes a fantastic princess. She even came to this peace conference.

Dartison: Since Prince Pieuju's and Prince Trion's troops are here to guard the Imperial section of the city, Arya's troops have nothing to do. It's a shame we aren't needed.

Arya and Roy leave the pier and head over to join the rest of the group.

Arya: Alright then, let's go take a look around town then. It will be better then sitting around here moping all day.

Dartison: Sounds like a plan to me. Hopefully we'll see some interesting sights.

The crew makes to leave the port, passing by a large number of merchants, monks, sailors, tourists, and more of the usual port crew. While walking past all of the numerous crates of cargo and other miscellaneous goods, Pure_Awesome smells something strange.

Pure_Awesome: Do you all smell that?

Brontavis: Your going to have to be more specific then that. We're in the middle of a whole slew of goods, ranging from perfumes, food stuffs, fancy clothes, the works.

Pure_Awesome: Well, I smell something that smells a lot like gun powder.

Dartison: We're inside the main trade city; of course there would be people selling that stuff. It should be no surprise to you. That's why Aht Urghan was chosen as the peace conference location. It's neutral and fairly unmilitant. A few peace keeping soldier, of course, but nothing big.

After having dismissed Pure_Awesome's worry, they proceed to enter the city.

Republic Story Start:In the Republic wing of Aht Urghan, the delegates of the Republic are gathered in their HQ to discuss their plans for the conference. There are a number of generals and advisers there gathered around the table. Numerous members of varying races. There were, as you'd expect, more humans then anyone else as this concerned the fate of all the free men. There were a number of sympathizers though, even some elves who felt the iron grip of the Empire was to much. During the intensity of the discussion, Volker notices that Zaigou doesn't appear to be paying much attention. He proceeds to slam his fist onto the table right infront of Zaigou.

Volker: Are you listening, Zaigou!?

Razfahd: You appear to be in a horrendous mood, Volker. I understand that the peace conference with the Empire isn't going as well we hoped it would, but it's not a reason to act like a monster.

Louverance: You can't blame just Volker for that. It doesn't appear like the Empire is truly interested in peace.

Razfahd: Keep in mind, Volker, they wouldn't have assaulted Mhaura if YOU had suppressed the revolt of your people, instead of requesting aid from the Empire.

Volker turns to look at Razfahd with a murderous look on his face, seething with contempt for him.

Volker: Do you think I'm oblivious to that fact?! The shame of inviting them into the holy land, will haunt me forever.

Sevinter: Be that as it may, since you have to go through it get to the holy land of Altana, Mhaura is a valueable strategic point... Even if you didn't have to deal with the revolt, it wouldn't have been long before the Emperor turned his greedy eyes towards you regardless.

Louverance: That is a hard truth, Sevinter. With the people in revolt, there were no other options. There wasn't any way to stop the invasion by the Empire, it was inevitable.

Razfhad: As our Republic has but recently separated from the Empire, our own people do not yet understand the benefits of standing on our own. The Empire has taken advantage of that fact.

Volker: We've devoted our lives to this... while others destroy everything we accomplish... It is unbearable.

Louverance: 'Others destroy everything...'? Who are you talking about?

Volker: What do you mean who? You do not remember? The riffraff General Rahal mentioned.

Razfhad: Of course I...remember, but... there's no reason to bring that subject up now.

A door leading into the next room opens, and a man walks into the room.

Karst: I have not heard of this matter. Please carry on.

President Karst turns his attention to Sevinter

Karst: How are you holding up...Sevinter? Are you managing to get used to replacing your father, Luzaf?

Sevinter lowers his gaze, shaking his head.

Sevinter: I'm trying sir, it's just, because of my father's reputation, much is expected of me. It's a bit overwhelming at times.

Karst: I see...Just keep your wits about you and you'll do just fine.

Volker: Ah, Lord Luzaf...It is most unfortunate that his health would not allow him to come. He would've surely been of most import in the peace treaty.

Karst: Are you unsatisfied with Sevinter? Maybe you would rather General Rahal in Luzaf's stead, perhaps? Is that what you were implying, Volker?

Razfahd: We know Rahal wanted to be present, Volker, but you know as well as any of us what a terrible idea that would be.

Karst: We all know Rahal is a good man, but... you know he is ill tempered. He isn't suited for such... fragile negotiations.

Volker: Perhaps...

Karst: You recruited Zaigou... he would not be here if he didn't think that Sevintercould make a difference.

Zaigou: Sevinter might still be youthful, but I see him bearing the future of the Republic on his back, someday.

Sevinter: You have such high expectations, Zaigou. I'll try not to disappoint.

Karst: I believe you were about to tell us an interesting story, weren't you, Razfahd...?

Razfahd: What are you talking about....? Oh...your talking about...It's really...not that big of a deal.

Karst: Oh.....I see...strange people you say...Could you be perhaps a bit more specific?

Louverance: He's talking about the ones General Rahal mentioned...the monks of that bizarre religious group, the ones with the hoods.

Sevinter: Any idea what they may be up to?

Zaigou: General Rahal told us that a group of pagan monks have been taking residence in Selbina shortly before the start of the peace conference.

Karst: Hooded... pagan monks...

Zaigou: I've got no idea how a pagan cult can grow and expand on this continent in the face of the holy word of Altana.

Louverance: The people have enough to worry about. They should not have their minds filled with that pagan rubbish.

Volker: In light of the recent unrest, they're gaining quite a following by spreading word about the coming "new order".

Zaigou: These monks sound like a bunch of cranks. Is there something special about them that alarms you?

Karst: These pagans...They claim they pray for peace, but what if... what if their real intent is far more sinister...?

Zaigou: What do you imagine they might be ploting, sir?

Volker: This sort of doomsday preaching is heard all over the place in Bastok. People are devouring these fantasies.

Razfahd: Karst, you're paranoid. There are lunatics everywhere. Worry about all of them, and you'll become one.

Karst: If those monks are the ones I've heard about, well, I have reason to be skeptical...

Volker: Let us converse about this some other time, shall we? We've come all this way to talk peace with San'd'Oria.

Louverance: Anyway, we should discuss our strategies in today's conference with the Empire while we still have time.

Empire Story

After having left the docks, the group decided to look around to see what all Aht Urghan had to offer. During their exploration, however, they ran into Naji. Naji is one of the Empire army's generals so he commands respect and authority among all the soldiers.

Naji: Ah, Princess! I was unaware that you and your team were roaming around the city.

Arya examines Naji, with scorn, having never liked him in the first place. He always had a strange vibe about him

Arya: Shouldn't you be with my brothers and the rest of the generals discussing peace talk strategies instead of wandering around yourself?

Naji: I was just heading back to the HQ to do just that, actually. While your busy gallivanting around, I've got important things that I must attend to.

With that, Naji turns around and heads off towards the HQ. Arya continues along their way fuming, when they hear a commotion around the other side of the building.

Republic

A knock is heard at the door

Razfahd: What is it?

William: Pardon the intrusion, my Lords... A messenger from Aht Urghan is here to see you.

Razfahd: I thought we still had plenty of time before the conference...

Karst: That's all right... Bring him in.

Messenger: I am here to escort you to today's peace conference.

Razfahd: You're here a bit ahead of schedule, aren't you?

Messenger: Lord Despachiaire suggests that given the current... difficulties in the peace negotiations, a new approach may help. Before the official conference begins, he invites both yourself and the Emperor to an informal council.

Razfahd: We weren't informed of this...

Volker: This "informal council" is obviously an excuse to get all the advisors out of the room.

Karst: Perhaps that's not such a bad idea... Without the confusion of many voices, the two of us might make progress. All right... I shall go.

Razfahd: Are you planning on going without a bodyguard?

Karst: I shall ask Louverance to accompany me.

Volker: But I am the aggrieved party in this conference!

Karst: Your emotions... may hinder our discussion. In light of this, I believe you should remain here. I would also like to ask Sevinter to do something for me. Unlike us, you are not well known here. Go speak with the people of Aht Urghan, and learn what you can.

Sevinter: As you wish.

Karst: Even though the Emperor Destin and I meet today, I would not expect to resolve everything just like that. Besides, you are too serious, like your father. You could use some time relaxing among the people. I also need to tell Zaigou something. I think an Imperial knight, Roy, is here in Aht Urghan accompanying the princess, Arya.

Zaigou: Roy sounds familiar... I've heard tales of a brave mage...

Karst: A while ago, during a border skirmish, he fought brilliantly against us. You may find him somewhere in town. I am ready... Thank you for waiting, messenger.

Razfahd: So he is gone...

Volker: So, now what do we do?

Razfahd: Nothing to do but wait. But you have a job to do, Sevinter. You'd better go.

Both

Meanwhile, near the entrance of the Imperail section of Aht Urghan, a small group of imperial soldiers meet a group of republican soldiers.

Viero: This is the camp of the Imperial army! It's off-limits to Republicans! Don't you know that?

A small time frame passes while the two groups stare each other down.

William: This is looking rather grim, Marvin...

Minby: What's so grim about it, Republic soldiers?

Marvin: I think... we've come to a bad place. I think we should... turn around now.

Tom: Oh no, wait a sec! You people must be spies... Do you think we would let go of spies so easily? You come to the Imperial stationing area and think you can get away with it? I think we need to beat some sense into your thick skulls.

Zaigou: Hey, I don't like your tone! Are you challenging us? You actually think that you're worthy enough to fight us...?

Sevinter, Zaigou, and William catch up to the rest of the group right before things get really nasty.

Brunhilde: If I'm not mistaken, you're... Sevinter. Aren't you the son of the ex-Imperial General Luzaf? I heard that your father was greatly respected as a general of the Empire. He would have been better off staying there. I wonder why he defected?

Tom: HA! You think you can fight us on our own turf? And still win?

Zaigou: There's only one way to find out... Better get ready, you'll find out it's hard to win a battle when you've lost an arm, or two.

Pure_Awesome: All right, hold it right there!

Zaigou: Oh ho! You must be Sir Roy of the Empire and... I believe you are the Emperor's daughter, Princess...

Sevinter: In front of Princess Arya, Sir Roy, and all the others. I must apologize. This commotion was caused by our intrusion into the Imperial district of Aht Urghan. Please forgive us. Arya: It is we, the Imperial army, who must apologize to you for acting so rudely.

Sevinter: It's wonderful that the princess of the Empire is so forgiving. I thank you.

Pure_Awesome: If we keep going on like this with the formalities, it'd take an eternity.

Roy: I saw you fight in the battle at the border awhile back, Sir Zaigou. I don't look forward to facing you on the battlefield anytime soon.

Zaigou: I was about to say the same thing, Sir Roy. Your repulation in battle preceeds you.

Roy: Is the person next to you, by any chance, Lord Sevinter? The son of Lord Luzaf, the great general?

Sevinter: Yes, I am Sevinter of Al'Taieu. I am glad to see that my father is still remembered in the Empire.

Arya: Your father is still considered a hero in the Empire. So, you are his son...

Zaigou: Either way, it cannot be just a coincidence that we met like this in the Imperial district...

Pure_Awesome: Coincidence... possibly.

During the conversation, a series of explosions occur almost simultaneously

Sevinter: Aht Urghan is under attack!!! Could this be an attempt to stop the peace conference?

Arya: That sounded like it came from the docks! Sir Sevinter, we must hurry to the docks to see what's going on. The timing is unfortunate as I think we have much in common. Let us be sure to talk again.

Sevinter: Yes, we should return to our camp. It is unfortunate that we are being interrupted as such, Prince Arya, we must be sure to talk again, it truly was an honor to meet you.

Zaigou: Let's hurry back to our camp, too.

Republic

As the group leaves the Imperial district and moves into the trade district, they come across a small company of monks.

Huddled into a small group to discuss the recent events, the band can overhear a bit of what they're saying.

Hooded Monk Minion 1: It seems Arya has taken the bait and left.

Hooded Monk Minion 2: Because we detonated the explosive in time, she seems to have returned to the docks.

William: What's up with that suspicious monk with the hood!?

Hooded Monk Boss: You're not Arya and her friends! You are swine from the Republic!

Zaigou: It seems that these are some of the monks that we were talking about earlier

Sevinter: It appears we have no choice but to take them on and see if we can get some information out of them

Hooded Monk Leader: Hah! Do you think you can fight me with that pitiful band? I'll cut you all to pieces!

Battle Start!

EmpireMeanwhile, back at the docks Arya and company have discovered a small band of the monks as well.

Hooded Monk Minion: Did our distraction work?

Pure_Awesome: WHO'S THERE?!?! Who are you?

Dartison: That's one of those strange monks we saw when we left the dock earlier this afternoon! There's no doubt about it!!

Brontavis: Hooded monks?? Now where have I heard that before?

Hooded Monk Boss:Ah, you've found already huh; what a misfortune. Now you must all die, you cannot spoil our plans.

Pure_Awesome: You plan to destroy your harmonious country?! We will not allow your infamous plot to follow through! Princess Arya! Sir Roy! To arms, we are being attacked!

Hooded Monk Boss: Princess Arya's army is here? Good then, I shall be able to kill you myself. If you care about your precious San d'Oria, you'll surrender now. I shall give you a swift and merciful death.

Arya: Putting on such strange hoods and hiding your faces, and thinking that you can defeat us, surely you must be joking. Where is the rest of your army?? I shall kill you all myself!!

Battle Start!

RepublicJust a few notes on the map rq; Obviously I had issues sizing the church and fountain, so I have to say right here. You can stand on every single hex on the C column. The thing at the top is supposed to be the church, the thing on the bottom is supposed to be the fountain.

Since I made the map so small without realizing it, Players have 3 movement hexes and monsters have 2. I'll be making the maps a lot bigger after this and jack up everyone's movement after this battle.

No counters in this, the lowest amount of damage is 1, you will never hit for no damage, and flyers actually can fly over water whereas the others can't, so I've decided to keep the bow > flying thing.

Just a couple notes here, I'm not bothering to update the battle maps for this update because the FE part is over and there's no point to doing it.I'm going to be fast-forwarding a round on the Empire side that would stall it from going into the boss battle part and it's only a matter of a single attack

Fire Emblem part is over, engaging boss now! JRPG mode is a go. All Bard songs have worn off!

Music:

Both teams are fighting a different set of the following:

1 Hooded Monk Boss2 Hooded Monk Aides, A & B.

As with any JRPG boss fight, their stats, elements and weapons will remain a mystery. They are for you to discover. Commands are now a simple "Pick your action, pick your target", much less complicated

Be warned though, the boss is big and a wee bit cranky.

One last small aside here; I said this in Skype already but for those of you that don't see/use it, I'll restate it here.I had something of a revelation the other day, it went a little like this.

"I promised these guys a game dammit, so I'm gonna give them this game. Very unfair of me to just put it down then forget about it, and those guys deserve better"

So this I vow; I'll update this game far more regularly then I have been using the times I originally came up with, giving me a few extra hours then the deadline I actually state to allow for fixing maps as they should be and stuff.

All actions due Wednesday @ 11:59 PM CST, which is roughly 35 hours from the time stamp of this post; if a team manages to put in all their actions before that time, since it's just the JRPG part I'll go through all the actions.

Last edited by Relmitos on Mon Jul 08, 2013 2:10 pm; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : grammar nazi)